Ready For An Island Escape In Thailand?
Photo Credit: Marcin Kaliński
Thailand is finally open for tourists and we're already dreaming of visiting the beautiful islands that the country is known for. Pristine white beaches, crystal clear waters - paradise is literally calling for you, so perhaps it's time to plan for your well-deserved break!
Photo Credit: Evan Krause
Photo Credit: Andrzej Suwara
Planning may get a little confusing with so many different islands and beaches to visit here, but fret not as we've done our research and prepared this complete 10-day Thailand island hopping itinerary for you, inclusive of every must-visit island and the best island tour offers. Read on to find out more!
The Best 10-Day Thailand Island Hopping Itinerary
Day 1: Phuket
1. Travel To Phuket
Photo Credit: Arkady Lukashov
Kickstart your island hopping adventure in Thailand by visiting the country's biggest and most iconic island, Phuket. International flights to Phuket are available so you can always take a direct flight to the island, or transit from Bangkok if you'd like to visit the capital city first.
2. Karon Viewpoint
Photo Credit: Miltiadis Fragkidis
What better way to start your Phuket exploration than with the best view of the island? Head up Karon Viewpoint, which does not fail to deliver fresh, picturesque vistas of the mountains, beaches and sea. The beautiful beaches surrounding the viewpoint are also definitely worth the visit, including the vibrant Nai Harn Beach or the quieter Kata Noi Beach.
3. Phuket Old Town
Photo Credit: Thae Jirapon
Spend the afternoon at Phuket Old Town. With European-style colloquial buildings and quirky shops tucked away in narrow streets, it’s hard to recall that you are on an island famed for being a tropical beach getaway. For lunch, drop by One Chun Restaurant to enjoy mouthwatering Thai delicacies and a lovely, vintage atmosphere.
4. Patong Beach
Photo Credit: Sein hussein
Spend most of your day on Patong Beach, by far the most popular beach in Phuket. Lined with restaurants, bars, shops and massage parlours, there’s no reason to get bored here. Enjoy a delicious and authentic Thai meal at one of the countless seafood joints, or perhaps even a post-dinner foot massage.
Got some extra time? Then, we highly recommend paying Bang Tao Beach a visit as well - it's one of Phuket's prettiest beaches and our personal favourite spot to catch a stunning sunset view!
Day 2: Similan Islands
1. Travel to Similan Islands
A small archipelago known as one of the most famed diving spots in the world, Similan Islands is a sure treat for tourists in need of an island getaway. The crystal clear blue waters, vibrant marine life, and scenic landscapes of the islands have made the island destination a must for travellers heading to Thailand.
#KlookTip: We highly recommend booking an all-inclusive day trip tour that will take you around the islands for snorkelling, visiting the best spots as well as meals!
2. Sailing Boat Rock
Don’t forget to bring your camera for a fun photo opportunity at the top of Sailing Boat Rock, Similan Islands iconic landmark! Made up of giant boulders perched at the top of a hill, the climb up is relatively easy and will take about an hour, after which you'll get to enjoy impressive sweeping views of Ao Kuerk Bay and the clear waters all around.
3. Go Snorkelling or Diving
The Similan Islands are known to be one of the best snorkelling and diving destinations in the world, with its crystal clear waters, vibrant corals and abundance of marine life. We could spend our entire day exploring the underwater world here.
Afterwards, you can opt to stay the night on the island or take a boat ride back to Phuket.
Day 3: Phi Phi Islands
1. Travel to Phi Phi Islands
Photo Credit: M o e
Famous worldwide for its phenomenal natural scenery, towering cliffs and gorgeous beaches, the beautiful Phi Phi Islands are always our go-to spot after Phuket. There are regular boat transfer services between Phuket and Phi Phi which you can hop on, including speedboats, traditional long tail boats as well as ferry cruises.
2. Maya Bay
Photo Credit: Humphrey Muleba
The main attractions at Phi Phi Islands are the islands themselves. Head over to Ko Phi Phi Leh and go on an enjoyable cruise around Maya Bay, a beautiful cove made famous for being the setting for Leonardo DiCaprio’s ‘The Beach’.
Prefer diving instead? On the opposite side of the island is Loh Samah Bay, a popular pick that diving enthusiasts shouldn't miss out on!
3. Monkey Beach
Photo Credit: Miltiadis Fragkidis
The name pretty much says it all - Monkey Beach is a popular beach in Phi Phi that is home to none other than their resident monkeys. You can meet these furry creatures up close here as they casually roam along the beach or dozing off in the shade of the trees nearby. The beach itself is a beautiful sight to see, with soft, white sand and clear blue waters.
4. Tonsai Bay
Photo Credit: Evan Krause
A bonus spot for you dare devils - head over to Tonsai Bay, well-known for being a haven for rock climbers. The limestone cliffs that reach dizzying heights provide adrenaline junkies a true thrill. After your climbing session, there's nothing better than just lying and chilling along the tranquil beach.
Day 4 - 5: Krabi
1. Travel to Krabi
Photo Credit: Rachael Annabelle
Head to land by taking a boat ride to Krabi, Thailand's exceptionally beautiful west coast province that is known for its majestic limestone formations, lush mangrove trees and of course, its surrounding islands (Phi Phi being one of them).
If you haven't visited Phi Phi Islands and are planning to head there from Krabi instead, why not go on an all-inclusive day trip tour?
2. Railay Beach
Photo Credit: Jose Llamas
Many beautiful beaches line the coast of Krabi but Railay Beach is no doubt one of our favourites, with its tranquil coast and impressive limestone cliffs. This hidden peninsula can only be accessed via longboat, which you can board from Ao Nang Beach.
Photo Credit: Kevin Bosc
For rock climbers, Railay is also the ultimate destination in Thailand for climbing due to karst formations rising dramatically from the beaches or straight out of the ocean, offering some of the best (and most challenging) spots to climb.
#KlookTip: Arrive early to book lessons since the area can get crowded or book rock climbing courses in advance on Klook, inclusive of land and boat transfers.
3. Island Hop Around Krabi
Go island hopping within Krabi itself! Literal paradise awaits for you on the islands situated near Krabi, making it a natural pick for many tourists who wish for a tropical getaway. Some of the most beautiful spots you can find here include Chicken Island, Poda Island and the Tup Islands.
4. Emerald Pool
Hidden within the lush Thai jungle is Emerald Pool, also known as Sra Morakot and Crystal Pool. As the name suggests, the pool has an emerald hue and the clear, cool water is lovely to swim in. The water of the natural pond flows from the fresh water streaming down from the limestone hill above.
Since it’s a popular spot amongst locals as well, it’s best to visit early in the morning (before 9am) before the tour groups and the local crowd starts pouring in!
5. Tiger Cave Temple
Also known as Wat Tham Suea, the Tiger Cave Temple is a famous temple in Krabi amongst locals and tourists alike. It’s been said that the Buddha footprint can be found within the temple.
The main highlight that attracts visitors to Tiger Cave Temple is the steep 1,237 steps climb leading up to the top of a small mountain. Even though the climb can be tough in the humid Thai weather, the view of the breathtaking 360° panoramic view of Krabi at the top makes it all worth it. The best time to start the hike is at 4pm to avoid the midday sun, as well as catch the sunset!
6. Mangrove Kayaking
Photo Credit: Gigi
Mangrove passageways, impressive canyons and towering karst formations set the scenes of kayaking in Krabi. While kayaking, you can also observe the rich tropical flora and fauna here that includes king fishers, crab-eating macaque monkeys, and more. With beautiful hidden bays and crystal clear lagoons, you’ll surely be amazed by the beauty of nature in Krabi as you paddle around.
Day 6: Koh Lanta
1. Travel to Lanta Island
Photo Credit: Wojciech Portnicki
Located just off the coast from Krabi, Koh Lanta is often overlooked, being less popular than some of the other islands in Thailand, but with its secluded location and pristine beaches, there was no way we'd leave this out of our list. To get here, take a ferry ride from Krabi which will take about 2 hours.
2. Island Hop Around Lanta Island
Photo Credit: Il Vagabiondo
Island hopping in Koh Lanta simply means you'll get to enjoy great snorkelling sites, idyllic beaches and scenic coves. We highly recommend going for island day tours here that will bring you to iconic spots such as the Emerald Cave on Koh Mook, where a hidden lagoon awaits you on the inside.
3. Time For Lime
While in Thailand, why not take up the opportunity to learn some Thai recipes and local cooking methods? Thai cooking courses are famous on Koh Lanta and one of our favourite go-to spots to sign up for classes at is Time For Lime, where you can learn to cook up delicious local dishes such as tom yam kung and sweet green curry.
Day 7: Koh Lipe
1. Travel to Koh Lipe
Photo Credit: Kla Aphimuk
Our last stop on the western coast of Thailand is none other than Koh Lipe. Part of the Tarutao National Marine Park, you can expect its waters to be home to colourful corals and rich marine life. You can take a ferry or speedboat ride here directly from Lanta Island, which will take approximately 2 to 3 hours.
Fun fact: The island is so close to Langkawi that you can also take a direct boat transfer from there to visit Koh Lipe!
2. Keirita's Yoga
Rejuvenating outdoor yoga with the calming sea breeze and lush greenery all around? Sign us up! Take a good stretch from your long and bumpy speedboat ride with engaging yourself in a yoga session at Keirita's Yoga. Keirita's is a renowned yoga studio on Koh Lipe, providing daily classes guided by a certified instructor.
3. Scuba Diving
If you're a diver, you definitely wouldn't want to miss out on scuba diving at Koh Lipe! There are multiple iconic dive sites around the island, including the 8 Mile Rock pinnacle as well as the Yong Hua Shipwreck. You can even take up a PADI diving course to obtain your diving certification here!
4. Sunset Beach
End your day here with sunset vistas, enjoyed from none other than Sunset Beach. A small bay located on the western coast of the island, it's a laidback beach area dotted with a few bars and restaurants, where you can enjoy your dinner at as well. Other beaches we also recommend checking out include Pattaya Beach and Hat Chao Le.
#KlookTip: Missed the sunset? Worry not! Start your day early the next morning by heading to the eastern coast of Koh Lipe instead to enjoy a beautiful sunrise view from Sunrise Beach.
Day 8-9: Koh Samui
1. Travel to Koh Samui
Photo Credit: Anthony DELANOIX
Pop right back to the mainland and take a bus or plane ride northeast towards Surit Thani, before taking a ferry over to Koh Samui, the second largest island in Thailand. Known for its calmer beach scene and lush rainforests, the island is a sophisticated resort destination suited for honeymooners, families or simply those of you who would like a couple days of an idyllic tropical retreat.
2. Big Buddha Temple
Photo Credit: Simon Vetterli
If you took the plane over to the island, you would have probably seen this majestic build before landing. Sitting upon a hill overlooking the ocean is the Big Buddha, the main landmark of Koh Samui that is located inside the Wat Phra Yai temple. Standing (or rather, sitting) at an impressive 15 metre height, this golden structure is truly a novelty and a sight you shouldn't miss out on.
3. Lipa Noi Beach
Photo Credit: Robert Eklund
Koh Samui arguably has some of the best beaches in Thailand, one of them being Lipa Noi. Boasting three kilometres of a pristine sandy beach, it is an idyllic spot to rest and relax at - go swimming in its clear, calm waters or have some fun with water activities such as the jet ski or paddle-board. Situated on the west coast of the island, the beach offers one of the best sunset views you can get on the island.
If you're looking for an option located north of the island and closer to the Big Buddha Temple, we also recommend checking out the beautiful Bo Phut Beach or Bangrak Beach.
4. Koh Samui ATV Jungle Tour
Go on an exhilarating adventure through the lush rainforest of Koh Samui! ATV tours are a must-try while you're here to truly explore the island and its natural landscapes. Alongside an experienced guide, feel the thrill of riding ATV quad bikes as you discover hidden gems and enjoy scenic views.
Day 10: Bangkok
1. Travel to Bangkok!
Photo Credit: Mos Sukjaroenkraisri
Photo Credit: Lisheng Chang
It's finally your last day! Wrap up your Thailand adventure by catching a flight back to the capital city, Bangkok. Take this opportunity to do some last-minute shopping as well as enjoy authentic Thai street food before you head home.
Planning to extend your island hopping trip? We recommend checking out Pattaya City and its beautiful islands, located on the eastern gulf of Thailand. Alternatively, why not spend a few days in Bangkok? Check out our complete 3D2N Bangkok itinerary:
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